Multimedia communicator utilized to offer dedicated services

ABSTRACT

A multimedia communicator is disclosed. The multimedia communicator comprises a processing unit; and a storage device coupled to the processing unit. The multimedia communicator further includes a plurality of interfaces to allow the multimedia communicator to offer a user a plurality of services. The MMC which includes a microprocessor computing system may be located in a car, for example, or within a handset similar to handsets presently utilized for cell phones. The MMC may be connected to a WiFi Internet connection, a cellular network, a satellite radio or equivalent satellite network, or to other available wireless networks. Additionally, the MMC has the potential to interface with GPS signals as desired.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to wireless communications and moreparticularly to data and voice communications via a plurality of systemsand networks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Wireless communications have resulted in massive changes in home andoffice telecommunications. Much office work is now carried out byutilizing wireless communications such as the Internet, for example.Telephones can now be operated via voice over Internet protocol (VOIP),if adequate WiFi or Internet facilities are available. However, whenusers leave their home or office, then they usually need to utilize acellular network, which may be expensive.

Accordingly, what is needed is a system and method which makes possiblea low cost approach for telephonic and data communications in the WiFiand cellular markets. The present invention addresses such a need.

Accordingly, what is needed is a system and method that addresses theabove-identified issues. The present invention addresses such a need.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A multimedia communicator is disclosed. The multimedia communicatorcomprises a processing unit; and a storage device coupled to theprocessing unit. The multimedia communicator further includes aplurality of interfaces to allow the multimedia communicator to offer auser a plurality of services. The MMC which includes a microprocessorcomputing system, may be located in a car, for example, or within ahandset similar to handsets presently utilized for cell phones. The MMCmay be connected to a WiFi internet connection, a cellular network, asatellite radio or equivalent satellite network, or to other availablewireless networks. Additionally, the MMC has the potential to interfacewith GPS signals as desired.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a multimedia communicator in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 shows the MMC in relation to cell zones, which may contain homeand office WiFi networks, and a network center.

FIG. 2A illustrates a component that can be integrated into the MMC orbe separate therefrom, allowing three functions.

FIG. 3A shows one embodiment of a motion (car or portable application)utilization of the MMC.

FIG. 3B shows a MMC Jr. client coupled to an MMH handset.

FIG. 4A shows how the MMC utilizes multiple or redundant networks,complimentary networks, which allow it to provide a greater degree ofcoverage for one-way services or information services.

FIG. 4B shows the MMC jr. utilizes multiple or redundant networks,complimentary networks, which allow it to provide a greater degree ofcoverage for one-way services or information services.

FIG. 5 illustrates the interconnectivity of the network center with datasources.

FIG. 6 shows the relationship between the MMH, MMC protocol technology,hybrid roaming technology and a method optimization approach.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to wireless communications and moreparticularly to data and voice communications via a plurality ofsystems. The following description is presented to enable one ofordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and is providedin the context of a patent application and its requirements. Variousmodifications to the preferred embodiments and the generic principlesand features described herein will be readily apparent to those skilledin the art. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited tothe embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistentwith the principles and features described herein.

FIG. 1 illustrates a multimedia communicator (MMC) 100 in accordancewith the present invention. The MMC 100 includes a peripheral interface102, network interface 104, CPU 106, memory 108, communication interface110, data bus 112, storage 114, WiFi connection/interface, uplinkGPS/traffic data connection/interface, cellular connection/interface,R2R (micro transmitter/receiver) connection/interface, data servicesconnection/interface, outside devices voice/LBS (location basedservices)/device connection/interface, subscriber database/Internetproviders connection/interface, satellite radio networkconnection/interface, voice recognition protocol connection/interface,voice activated connection/interface, display connection/interface,linked services connection/interface, geographic linksconnection/interface, VoIP connection/interface, car cell phoneconnection/interface, and an outside providers (services)connection/interface.

The MMC 100 which includes a microprocessor computing system 102, may belocated in a car, for example, or within a handset similar to handsetspresently utilized for cell phones. The MMC 100 may also be located as astandalone unit at a home or built into a set top box, for example.Additionally, the MMC 100 may be incorporated within another device,such as a cell phone, media player, car stereo or satellite receiver.

The MMC 100 may be connected to a WiFi Internet connection, a cellularnetwork, a satellite radio or equivalent satellite network, or to otheravailable wireless networks. Additionally, the MMC 100 has the potentialto interface with GPS signals as desired.

The MMC may also be located in a house, in a car, as a standalone unit,or built into a set box. Additionally, the MMC can also be incorporatedinto some of the common devices with which it interfaces, such as a cellphone. The MMC could, for example, be built into a cell phone, mediaplayer, car stereo or satellite receiver.

Utilizing one or more of the above connections, the MMC 100 is thenconnected to databases which make it possible to offer the user manydifferent kinds of services, such as geography and location-basedservices, for example. Because the MMC 100 also includes a storagedevice 104, database information as well as desired user information,such as email, may be stored within the MMC 100 as well as accessed fromexterior locations. In a multimedia communicator hybrid embodiment, thestorage capability within the MMC 100 also allows for seamlessaccessibility to voice and data.

In a hybrid embodiment, optimization features allow for the lowestpossible transmission costs by utilizing databases in connection withthe ability to switch between input and output sources, i.e., from acellular network to a WiFi network and then back, for example, dependingupon quality of reception, network availability, transmission andquality of signal cost factors.

Multimedia Communicator (MMC) 100

The multimedia communicator (MMC) 100 (“MMC parent”) comprises amicroprocessor based computing system which includes a centralprocessing unit 102 and associated storage 104. The MMC 100 may belocated in one or a plurality of locations. The MMC 100 may have anoperating system such as Windows CE or the like. Its shape may resemblethat of a handset similar to a cell phone, or as discussed earlier, itmay be a standalone unit or incorporated within another device, such asa media player or set top box.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the MMC 100 has a plurality of input sourcesand interfaces. These may include:

(1) Connections to one or a plurality of WiFi areas and to the Internetvia WiFi.

(2) Connections to one or a plurality of cellular networks.

(3) Connections to one or a plurality of satellite radio networks and/orother satellite networks.

(4) Connections to a GPS system.

(5) Connections to a voice over IP system, which may be included as asoftware or hardware embodiment within the MMC.

(6) A display.

(7) Voice recognition input and/or capabilities.

(8) Connections to standard car interface audio/data systems.

(9) Specific, particular interfaces for specific models of cell phones.

(10) Connections for a computer.

(11) Connections for sending audio/data/video (feedback) as well asreceiving audio/data/video.

The MMC 100 is capable of operating in real time, when connected to oneor a plurality of networks. It also has storage capability, utilizingthe memory 108, including the capability of downloading data, audio andvideo materials. The combination of real time capability and operatingfrom storage allows it to receive emails, video information, satelliteradio programs, and voice/data transmissions, and then to play theseback for the user at a time the user selects.

The MMC 100 is also connected to a network center, which may be locatedin one or a plurality of locations. The network center may be a datastorage system located at one or a plurality of locations. The networkcenter has the capability of (1) receiving instructions and/or data fromthe MMC 100, (2) accessing information from databases and from the MMC100 in order to create and provide services, (3) placing and receivingphone and/or data calls, and (4) in a hybrid embodiment switchingbetween cellular, WiFi and satellite networks in order to achieveoptimization of lowest possible transmission and reception cost as wellas optimization of level of signal quality desired in relation to costfactors. Utilizing the network center and databases within the MMC 100and network center, the MMC 100 is capable of providing a number ofservices in addition to playback of audio, video and data programming,as further described below.

FIG. 2 shows the MMC 100′ in relation to cell zones 202 a and 202 b,which may contain home WiFi networks 204 a and office WiFi networks 204b, and a network center 206. As can be seen, the MMC 100′ may beutilized within one or a plurality of cell zones 202 a-202 b and WiFizones 204 a-204 b, and the user of the MMC 100′ may find it necessary tomove between various cell zones 202 a-202 b and WiFi zones 204 a-204 b.

Services

The MMC 100 can provide services on different levels of complexity. Alllevels of services include an outgoing signal as well as an incomingdata/voice/video capability. For examples, cars utilizing MMC servicesare able not only to receive incoming GPS information but also have thecapability to send GPS information back to a network center, so thatspecialized geographic services can be provided to drivers.

Friend Finder

Since the MMC has GPS functionality, it can be used in conjunction witha friend/location finder service.

In the location finder service, the destination is specified usingeither the MMC keyboard, media controller, voice recognition, ornomenclature, or optimization techniques. From this point the user cansee (on the MMC screen) or hear (via the MMC audio output) details aboutthe destinations location using the combination of the destinationlocation/coordinates (at the network or peer/device/MMC level) and theuser location via the GPS/other MMC location techniques.

The friend finder service operates similarly to an always-on telephoneservice. A list or lists of friends (who are fellow MMC users where theMMC has a unique identity code for location/identity purposes) can beentered into the MMC via the keyboard, media controller, voicerecognition, or nomenclature—or via the web: e.g., “My Space”, “MyFriends”, or the network center's own secure community site.

The network center can include a “secure” community site—where memberscan join only when they have a legally bought MMC, valid associatedcredit card with the MMC billing, valid associated MMC driver's license,automobile license number and details (for MMC's theft service and toallow for more accurate demographic matching/other network centerservices) and a signed user agreement not to spam, annoy, etc., othermembers. In this way no spam is allowed and members can have penalties(e.g., turning off their MMC) imposed by the network center givenviolations.

Friends are established by accepting/rejecting offers (as in My Space)to create friends. They can then place calls (MMC-MMC and phone-MMC andMMC-phone) to other members with pictures/video/music/or messages/customring tones appearing at the other MMC (in the case of MMC-phone endphone limitations will apply). The users can also put “caller-IDenabled”, “caller-ID blocked”, etc., on their line or for specificfriends (e.g., allow only Bobby2 and Sally45 to come through my MMC forcalls, but everyone for T3 email friends replies.) Lastly, the user canlist for Friend Finder service “location enabled”, “caller-ID blocked,”etc., on their MMC or for specific friends (e.g., allow only Bobby2 andSally45 to “see me”, but be blocked/invisible for everyone else.) TheMMC user can then use the MMC via the keyboard, media controller, voicerecognition, or nomenclature to locate Sally45 or show Bobby2'slocation—the locations will be displayed on the MMC or with audio sentfrom the MMC. Information on the location of customers will be storedsecurely either at the network center (network centric using WiFi, cellphone or telephone for communication) or within the individual MMCs(using WiFi, cell phone, telephone or R2R for communication.) This willbe a safe and significant innovation for finding friends in shoppingcenters or the like where WiFi/other networks exist or via R2R with nonetwork requirements (e.g., locating miners/soldier caught in caves,tunnels or deserts.)

Directional Functionality

Two directional functions may be utilized with the MMC 100: (1) thenetwork center function and (2) the peer-to-peer local center function.

1. Network Center Function (“Network Centric Function”)

In the network center model, for example, data may be gathered from allthe cars in a particular portion of a road. This information is thentransmitted from the cars to a central network center. The networkcenter puts together the information and then transmits the results backto the drivers. For example, as a result of this live traffic patternanalysis, drivers will then learn which areas are congested and benotified of alternate traffic choices they may wish to choose.

2. Peer to Peer Local-Center Function (“Peer Centric Function”)

Peer to peer local-center functioning operates as in the followingexample. Information from the cars on a specific portion of a road istransmitted to the Internet, but not necessarily to the network center.Because each MMC 100 has a database, is connected to the Internet orother networks, and also may have access to a CD ROM or equivalent inthe car, the MMC is able to assemble the information from the Internetor other MMCs, together with its own databases, and produce a localizedtraffic report and other services and applications via a peer to peerarchitecture. This function would be especially useful in the event of abreakdown in communications, or in a military application where theremay not be a network center. In these instances, the MMC 100 can stillfunction effectively.

“Level 1” Service

Service from the MMC 100 at the lowest level of complexity includesincoming information, such as that from GPS systems, as well as arelated outgoing signals loop. For example, Level 1 service mightutilize GPS information on the location of the vehicle, combining thatwith satellite information regarding weather for the location where thevehicle is traveling. Through the combination of the moving vehiclelocation information and the satellite weather information, localizedforecasts could be provided via the MMC 100 for the vehicle driver.Forecasts and related data would be provided on the display of the MMC100.

In one embodiment, Level 1 services can be applied to trafficapplications. Utilizing GPS information, and having availableinformation on position, change of position time and speed of thevehicle, then most traffic applications can be carried out at level 1.

“Level 2A” Service

Level 2A service provided by the MMC 100 would include additionalmeasurements in addition to, for example, GPS incoming data. Suchadditional measurements would originate from additional sensors alreadyinstalled on a vehicle or MMC, and the combination of this additionalinformation with GPS information and satellite weather information wouldallow for providing a more detailed, location-specific, time-specificweather forecast for the driver via the MMC 100 and its display.

“Level 2B” Service

Level 2B of service is realized by installing new sensors on the vehicleor person. These sensors may detect such factors as temperature,moisture, humidity, barometric pressure and wind speed. Combininginformation from these additional sensors, in addition to outsidedatabases, including those provided by outside service providers, allowsfor the creation of very complete and integrated weather and trafficdatabases for an entire area. Through the utilization of a feedback loopfor GPS and this constantly changing information derived from additionalmeasurements, geographic and location-specific databases can be createdin real time, thus increasing their value.

Such databases can allow for microprediction of weather patterns, forexample, and for the creation of microweather databases.

Databases

Databases may be maintained and accessed at a network center in one or aplurality of locations, and/or within the MMC 100, as well. Incontrasting to existing services, which require multiple sensors on theroad, this system allows for the creation of information on a real timebasis from multiple sample sources.

Telephony Services

The MMC 100 can function as a WiFi phone when located in a WiFi area.This allows for telephony at low or no cost. Peer to peer and R2Rtechnology can be utilized for voice and other services.

Internet Services

The MMC 100 can access Internet service when located in a WiFi area,thereby, for example, allowing for collection and storage of emailinformation, which the user can then access at any preferred time.Software within the MMC 100 and the network center allows the user toindicate preferences for types of information desired to be collectedand stored, such as stock updates.

Radio Services

The MMC 100 segments all radio programs and their connectivity, whichmay be received either from WiFi networks, satellite networks, and/orcellular networks, and then rejoins the segmented packets of informationor connectivity, overcoming the lack of contiguous signals and providingthe user with a continuous playback uninterrupted by servicedisconnections. For example, the MMC can be receiving and playing asatellite radio channel. When the satellite reception is blocked orfails, the MMC can transparently switch to the Internet satellite radiotransmission via a WiFi network unaffected by the satellite receptioninterference.

Radio services may include, but are not limited to:

1. Satellite-based services, such as receiving reception from asatellite source.

2. Analog based services, such as receiving or recording an analog radiostation.

3. Digitally based services, such as the reception of digital radiotransmissions.

4. Internet based services, such as a podcast or other type of Internetfeature.

Television and Video Services

Similarly, the MMC 100 can organize and store segments of videoinformation for later continuous playback. The software within the MMC100 allows for varied modes of operation, in terms of still images, andvaried resolution displays shown at different frames per second.Combined voice/data/video services can offer interactive informationservices such as voiceovers during stock, traffic, and weather displays.

Television services may include, but are not limited to:

1. Satellite-based services, such as receiving reception from asatellite source.

2. Analog based services, such as receiving or recording an analog-basedtelevision station.

3. Digitally based services, such as the reception of digital televisiontransmissions.

4. Internet based services, such as the reception of a television orvideo signal, or other video application, via the Internet.

Printer

The MMC has the capability of printing receipts, tickets, coupons, andrelated information such as emails received from the MMC.

Scanner/Fax Unit

The MMC has the capability of supporting/interacting with a scanner andfax unit, in order to scan documents.

Video/Still Camera

The MMC has the ability to store and/or stream uploads and downloads ofvideo using a combination of local storage and multiple redundantnetworks. This capability makes it possible to upload and downloadcontinuously, thereby making possible portable use while downloading anduploading. Utilizing the MMC, video can be sent down by various networksand cached in local storage. The same technique can be utilized foruploads, resulting in more efficient transfers.

Push Technology

Push technology involves utilizing the network center to push media andoptimization information to the MMC. Typical types of media that can bepushed are email, voice mail, music downloads and video downloads. Weboptimization wherein the network center monitors the MMCs constituentwebsite or users' web sites in order to minimize the informationrequired to communicate with the MMC. The network center pushes updatesto the targeted site. The network center can timestamp each fileassociated with the web site to a specific level. The network center canrecord this level. Then, for example, a Dow Jones average template canbe downloaded continuously.

Portable Media Storage

The MMC can play media from a self-contained media player or memorystick device inserted in the MMC or a music player/iPod or media cellphone connected to the MMC.

Anti-Theft Services

With anti-theft services, the MMC can transmit information linking theGPS information and critical information about the car that could betransmitted to a network. For example, if a car was stolen the locationof the car could be identified utilizing the GPS system and a signalcould be utilized to disable the car. The information could be locatedwithin the car or could be incorporated outside of the car.

Gaming Services

The gaming services would provide an optimized method for networkgaming. It would provide an open platform for games in the displayvehicle home/mobile device. It utilizes the ability to connect to theInternet via a WiFi and other networks utilizing a game controller.

Link Services

Link services are based on information about the user stored within thedatabases utilized by the network center and the MMC 100. Link servicesalso require a feedback loop of data to the network center in order toallow for link services to be carried out.

For example, once a user has requested a service, such as a meal, theMMC 100 would send the request for the link service to the networkcenter. The network center would utilize existing database informationto determine which food service companies are near the user, inconjunction with GPS information to locate the user. The network centerwould then make use of the uplink/feedback loop to perform suchfunctions as ordering the appropriate food item and verifying creditcard information. The user would then be able to pick up their orderquickly and efficiently when they arrive at the food service outlet.Such services provided by the MMC 100 save the user time, increasebusiness for linked businesses and service, and help to eliminate fraudin monetary transactions.

What link services allows is the ability to utilize one service that is,for example, the radio, to listen to a song and then to order the songor a related item utilizing another service. For example, listening to asong offers the ability to purchase that song or a related song or arelated media. In this embodiment, you could, for example, hear areview, purchase the related movie. This would be triggered through aservice purchase through an outside vendor. Similarly, with stocktrading, the ability to display stock information, to make trades basedon the link services can be provided through a general purposeinterface.

Predictive/Preference Services

Predictive/preference services occur when an MMC/MMH user enters anactive network area. When an MMC/MMH user enters an active network area,the network will recognize the identity of the user and also be able toaccess databases which describe the user's preferences.

Because the network center and/or the MMC/MMH has a database whichcontains the user's preferences, such as type of food preferred orchoice of type of gas, once the user is recognized by the network theuser can then be automatically provided with their pre-establishedpreferences for the kind of service offered. A user entering the fieldof a network associated with a coffee house, for example, would be ableto automatically have their order placed for the kind of coffee theypreferred and their specific food preferences, then be automaticallybilled. Once the user arrives at the service establishment, the userwould need only to enter the “predictive preferences” line, for example,and then receive the coffee (i.e., the product or service) requested.Taking and preparing the order, and processing billing for the order, isaccomplished automatically.

Automatic Billing Service

Because the network center or MMC/MMH has a record of the user's billinginformation, the billing process can be carried out automatically asdescribed above once the product or service has been delivered to theuser.

Geographic or Location Based Services

The MMC 100 can also provide geographic or location-based services. Forexample, through the use of WiFi, GPS information, and databases,services such as real time personalized traffic routing maps can becreated. WiFi triangulate information as well as GPS information may beutilized to locate the user's vehicle.

The MMC 100 can also function with other available networks, such as acellular network.

The use of such combined real time and stored database information makespossible personalized traffic routing maps, a traffic gridmap for almostthe entire United States, or localized microweather maps, for instance.These maps can have infinite resolution since they can be sourced from acentral network center with an extensive library or access to outsidedata sources well beyond what is possible via locally stored data as incurrent CD ROM based vehicle navigation systems.

For example, in the instance of a forthcoming storm with heavy rain,such a system could provide drivers with advance warning on a verysmall, local scale, creating higher levels of safety, and possibly eveninsurance rate reductions.

Radio services can provide geographic-based access to local stations andprogramming, creating customized radio and television reception, whichis currently not possible with satellite radio broadcasts. Relevantlocal stations could be determined by GPS and transparently inserted ormade available via the local station's broadcast accessed via theirInternet websites using the MMC WiFi or other network connectivity.

In another embodiment, real time traffic information received from thevehicle as above described could be combined with national signregulation and street road rule databases. If, for example, a vehiclealso had a speed sensor and this information was included in a feedbackloop to the network center, services such as speed warnings could becreated, providing information on traffic congestion data down to thespecific lane of a highway. Additionally, the GPS signal positions couldbe compared and calculated, providing even more precise and up-do-dateinformation.

It would be possible to provide a smart cruise control system within thevehicle, for instance. Operating at a Level 1 standard (see above), thesmart cruise control system would tell the driver and the vehicle whichoperating speeds are legal, and that if the driver is exceeding thespeed limit, issue warnings to slow down. Level 2 analysis wouldactually control the driver's car to make sure that deceleration takesplace, offering major safety benefits to drivers and quite likelyreduced insurance premiums.

If altitude information were added to the Level 2 standard ofinformation, it would be possible to create three-dimensional mapping ofroads. Such three-dimensional road maps could be combined with amicroweather reporting service to give the driver a highly detaileddisplay of information on current and forthcoming road conditions,including danger warnings due to rain combined with gradients such as“slippery turn ahead-slow down!”

System Condition Warning Service

The best example of this is “fuel empty” warning. Under that embodimentit would give an indication that the car is almost out of fuel and wouldprovide an indication based on the GPS system of the locations of theclosest fuel stations would also allow for the indication of trafficproblems so that it would give the driver alternatives of gettingrefueled if the closest alternative were not the best.

Military Uses

By equipping soldiers with MMC 100 equipment including sensorinformation, and roads with information networks, military convoys wouldbe able to make use of detailed information, providing them with a saferawareness of road and weather conditions in areas in which they areoperating.

Military uses would include logistics and location information. Forexample, the system can determine the location of people, or the flow oflogistics, such as supplies.

Optimizing Services

The MMC 100, and related software, is capable of optimizing services sothat users can be offered the cheapest or safest routing services. Thealgorithm for optimization can be determined based upon costing and timedatabases, such as billing plans in cellular vs. roaming charges, forexample.

Customized Ad Insertion

Geographic and linked services offer the possibility of customizedadvertising insertions, enabling advertisements to be played when theuser is close to the business being advertised. For instance, if adriver is approaching food outlets or gasoline stations at forthcomingexits, localized ads can be played for these services as GPS informationindicates that the driver is nearing a specific location.

Customized ad insertion could also be based on demographic-basedinformation, since the network center and/or MMC 100 database containsuser preference information.

Customized Media Insertion

Media which is geographically-based or demographically-based could alsobe inserted as the driver or user travels. For example, signals fromlocal radio stations in the area in which the driver is traveling couldbe inserted into satellite radio transmissions.

The MMC 100 may be especially frequently utilized mostly in three areasof use: (1) motion (typically car applications), (2) mobile-cell phonetelephony, and (3) fixed (typically use in the office or home).

Presets

An MMC has presets which allow for selecting between different services.For example, there may be AM/FM radio normal/high definition, internetpresets, internet radio and video, and channel presets. Channel presetscan be set utilizing buttons on the MMC or using a touch screen. Inaddition, the MMC can be utilized with an earphone that can enable ahands-free operation.

Channel Presets

The MMC, through a PC or internet through the network center the user orthe service operator can organize a plurality of media channels. Mediachannels are aggregates of information between two dimensional timeslots or data requirement. This would also allow presets for differentInternet radio stations, Internet video stations, digital and analogradio, televisions and other media types.

Time slots—being able to select channels (such as business information,travel information, sports information) via time slots. The selectchannels could be associated with a range of sources such as a pluralityof business channels, a matrix of information and both live media andrecorded media.

Data requirements—the data is based upon the type. For example, the datatype being “IBM” would result in a selection of media being about IBMfrom a preset list or set of sources.

Searchable Content Services

Accordingly, using the MMC a user can speak or type specific words whichwill result in searches that will result in text or otherdata—displayed, printed out, saved, loaded into preset channel featuresof the MMC, media and/or text. Data could be put in the MMC or aspecific data requirement channel (such as IBM stock price) can beaccessed via the MMC.

Integrated Transaction Space

A component is provided that can be integrated into the MMC or beseparate therefrom that allows three functions. FIG. 2A illustrates sucha component 250. Component 250 includes a credit/debit card reader 252,a credit card emulator 254, and a RFID/bluetooth/wireless—credit card,signature recognition, virtual checks interface program, slot 256, pointof sale interface, credit display 258, check emulation/printer 260 and ahandwriting recognition module. To obtain information which embodies aspecific credit card, the user slides an existing credit card throughthe credit card reader 202 which stores the information in an encryptedor secure fashion within the MMC. In this way many credit cards can bestored within the same MMC device, eliminating the need for a creditcard wallet. The credit card emulator 254 operates in three modes. Inthe first mode a magnetic strip simulator is ejected from the MMC andallows the user to swipe the MMC magnetic playback strip. In the secondmode, rather than a magnetic strip, a single magnetic head is utilized.In the third mode, RFID/bluetooth/wireless connectivity is used throughthe POS interface 256 to link to relevant billing and accountingsystems. In each case a full representation of the credit can bedisplayed on the credit card display 258. The credit card could be seenby an LED display on each side of the device 250. To verify securetransaction the input of the user's pin via the keypad 204 or signedcredit card receipts via the handwriting recognition module.

Virtual checks can be created via the check emulator 260 which allowsthe creation for a virtual or printed check through the check emulatormodule 260 with the payee name and amount being inputted eitherautomatically through the POS interface 256 or through the MMC manuallythrough the MMC keypad. The check can be signed through handwritingrecognition module 262 by the user's signature using a stylus 266 andthen transmitted as a virtual check through the POS interface 256 or asa printed check through check emulator/printer module 260. The MMC canthen interface via the POS interface 256, the internet, cell network,WiFi or the network center to organize and keep track of all userfinancial transactions. In this way, the user with a credit card MMC canensure to have a balanced account for review of by MMC at all times.

Motion MMC 100′″

FIG. 3A shows one embodiment of a motion (car application) utilizationof the MMC 100′″. The MMC 100′″ may be connected to a cell phone 306, anMMH handset 304, a network center 206′, R2R (radio transmitter to radiotransmitter) system, and a home phone 310. It can communicate to WiFinetworks, to the network center and to telephony networks.

MMC Jr. Client and R2R Networks

FIG. 3B shows a MMC Jr. client 300 coupled to an MMH handset 304′. TheMMC Jr. client 300 has a subset of the functionality of the MMC. The MMCJr. Client 302 connects to the network center, WiFi networks, R2R (radiotransmitter to radio transmitter systems), and MMC LAN. The couplingbetween the MMC Jr. Client 300 and the MMH handset 304′ includes amicrophone and audio interface.

The MMC 100′″ can operate with radio transmitter to radio transmitter(R2R) systems, which involve microtransmitters transmitting to eachother. The use of R2R systems makes possible the provision of anuninterrupted flow of data and information from the MMC 100′″. If, forexample, a WiFi signal is lost when a driver is passing underneath anunderpass, microtransmitters can transmit backwards or forwards to thepoint where a signal is still available.

Similarly, the MMC Jr. Client 300, which may be mounted in a car, cantransmit and/or relay signals between MMC units or an MMC and a networkcenter 206′, WiFi network, or R2R network.

Nomenclature Data-Based Services

Existing location-based services are currently driven by address data.In contrast, people intuitively think in “nomenclature” data, which isdata related to where the user is located at any particular point intime.

What is needed is a system driven by and based on nomenclature data.There are two kinds of nomenclature data: (1) specific nomenclaturedata; and (2) general nomenclature data. In a highway situation, forinstance, “City Burger” would be an example of specific nomenclaturedata; and “Starbucks nearest to me off freeway” would be an example ofgeneral nomenclature data.

Media Controller Services

In the preferred embodiment, this would comprise a smart thumbwheelcontroller, which could advance static or a series of phrases that areoptimized for the user based on the email or statistical relevance of aparticular phrase. For example, if the term or phrase “I would like tomeet with you on ______” that phrase might be used several times on themedia controller in a manner that would have statistical relevance tothe user. Accordingly, this would be another service of the MMC.

Multiple or Redundant Networks

FIG. 4A shows how the MMC 100″″ utilizes multiple or redundant networks,complementary networks, which allow it to provide a greater degree ofcoverage for one-way services or information services. In order toaccomplish uninterrupted service, the MMC 100″″ may utilize cellnetworks 402, telephone networks 404, WiFi networks 406, local datanetworks 408, radio to radio (R2R) networks 410, GPS satellite networks412, MMC LAN 414 as well as one or a plurality of databases 410 andoutside service providers 416. The one or a plurality of databases 410may be maintained in the MMC 100″″ or in the network center 206′″. FIG.4B shows an MMC Jr. implementation.

As discussed earlier, when a driver passes beneath an underpass,satellite radio broadcasts will be interrupted. Because the MMC 100″″connects to redundant networks and can switch back and forth betweenthem, the driver is insured uninterrupted coverage. Switching could takeplace between satellite input and WiFi input, for instance, where thesatellite provider also has a real time web site.

If receiving the information was extremely important, and cost was notimportant, and a user had a subscription to cellular service, gaps inservice could be filled in by switching between satellite and cellularservice. Similar capabilities would exist for video and TV broadcasts.

Network Center

FIG. 5 illustrates the interconnectivity of the network center 206″″with data sources. The network center 206″″ includes optimizationtechnology 502 and one or more databases 504. Data sources include cellphone, WiFi, R2R, satellite communications, land-based telephony,outside databases and service providers, other databases includingnetwork provider databases (WiFi, cell, etc.), and other databases, theMMC 100, media (radio/television, and other media), satellite, digital,analog and Internet sources, GPS sources, and optimization services.

Hybrid Multimedia Communicator

In another embodiment, a hybrid multimedia communicator (MMH) is capableof operating between WiFi and cellular networks without dropping callsor data. It is especially important that data be communicated withoutinterruption, since many of the services provided require continual datauploading, downloading, storage, and display. In this embodiment, theMMH protocol determines partnerships between unique cell providers,establishing a telephony protocol standard which is independent ofindividual WiFi or cell providers.

In conventional telephony, the user must depend upon point-to-pointconnections (from the user through a contiguous network to thedestination). In the hybrid embodiment, however, the network center,which has telephony functionality, establishes the network connectionsfor the user.

Head-End Hybrid Function

The MMH has the ability to pass not just voice or IP data between theMMC and the network center to the MMC client and the MMC, but also passa data stream which is associated, for example, with uplink information,the GPS and traffic information.

With network center and uplink connectivity capability, the networkcenter establishes the connectivity for the user and then establishesconnectivity with the destination.

MMC Protocol Technology

FIG. 6 shows the relationship between the MMH 600, MMC protocoltechnology 602, hybrid roaming technology 604 and a method optimizationapproach 606. MMC 602/MMH 600 protocol contains the information, such asWiFi and cellular area subscription databases and authenticationprocedures which allow for networks to be connected to and billing totake place, for instance. Subscription rules for cellular networks andWiFi providers are typically stored either at the network center orwithin the MMC 100. The MMC protocol technology 602 includes cellnetwork subscriber rules, WiFi provider rules, connectivity and costrequirements for providing all levels of quality, information todetermine which is the best WiFi group to utilize for a specific area.In other words, the MMC protocol technology 602 allows the MMC 100and/or MMH 600 to determine which services should be selected to provideleast cost voice and data, thereby creating “intelligent roaming”.

The database or databases utilized in the MMC protocol technology 602and MMH protocol technology 600 include GPS information, WiFi providerdatabases, cellular provider databases, and procedures for quality andcost optimization services. For data, the protocol systems 600 and 602also include buffer storage.

Although the present invention has been described in accordance with theembodiments shown, one of ordinary skill in the art will readilyrecognize that there could be variations to the embodiments and thosevariations would be within the spirit and scope of the presentinvention. Accordingly, many modifications may be made by one ofordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe appended claims.

1. A multimedia communicator (MMC) comprising: a processing unit; astorage device coupled to the processing unit; and a plurality ofinterfaces to allow the multimedia communicator to offer dedicatedservices.
 2. The multimedia communicator of claim 1 wherein thededicated services comprise media controller services.
 3. The multimediacommunicator of claim 1 wherein the dedicated services comprise systemcondition warning services.
 4. The multimedia communicator of claim 1wherein the dedicated services comprise geographic or location basedservices.
 5. The multimedia communicator of claim 1 wherein networkcentric functioning is provided by downloading maps from a networkcenter based upon location.
 6. The multimedia communicator of claim 1wherein peer to peer functioning is provided by sharing maps based uponlocation.
 7. The multimedia communicator of claim 1 wherein thededicated services comprise gaming services.
 8. The multimediacommunicator of claim 1 wherein the network centric function providestraffic information, weather, customized local radio services, trafficspeed or sign, recognition warnings, road conditions and incorporationof information based on weather and traffic.
 9. The multimediacommunicator of claim 1 wherein the peer to peer function providestraffic information, weather, customized local radio services, trafficspeed or sign, recognition warnings, road conditions and incorporationof information based on weather and traffic.
 10. The multimediacommunicator of claim 1 wherein the dedicated services compriseanti-theft services.
 11. The multimedia communicator of claim 1 whereinthe MMC includes presets of media channels.
 12. The multimediacommunicator of claim 1 wherein the presets comprise any and anycombination of presets for Internet radio stations, Internet videostations, digital and analog radio and television.
 13. The multimediacommunicator of claim 11 wherein channels can be selected via timeslots.
 14. The multimedia communicator of claim 11 wherein the dataprovided by the media channel is based upon type.
 15. The multimediacommunicator of claim 13 wherein the data is searchable via specificwords for a specific data requirement.
 16. The multimedia communicatorof claim 15 wherein a component is provided which allows for anintegrated transaction space with the MMC.
 17. The multimediacommunicator of claim 16 wherein the component comprises a credit/debitcard reader, a credit card emulator, and aRFID/bluetooth/wireless—credit card, signature recognition, virtualchecks interface program, slot, point of sale (POS) interface, creditdisplay, check evaluation/printer and a handwriting recognition module.18. The multimedia communicator of claim 17 wherein to obtaininformation which embodies a specific credit card, the user slides anexisting credit card through the credit card reader which stores theinformation in an encrypted or secure fashion within the MMC.
 19. Themultimedia communicator of claim 17 wherein the credit card emulatoroperates any one of and any combination of three modes: in a first modea magnetic strip simulator is ejected from the MMC and allows the userto swipe the MMC magnetic playback strip; in a second mode, a singlemagnetic head is utilized; and in the third mode,RFID/bluetooth/wireless connectivity is used through the POS interfaceto link to relevant billing and accounting systems.
 20. The multimediacommunicator of claim 19 wherein a full representation of the credit canbe displayed on the credit card display.
 21. The multimedia communicatorof claim 20 wherein a secure transaction is verified by the input of auser's pin number via the keypad or by a signed credit card receipt viathe handwriting recognition module.